Handicap vans are long-term investments that usually last for decades. However, you may still run into a few problems with your accessible van. The good news is that most of these problems are avoidable and easy to solve, even without a mechanic's intervention. Today, we highlight some of the most common issues with accessible vans and how you can avoid them.
Malfunctions With the Van's Electronic System
Handicap vans for sale are either manufactured as-is or modified after production. While these two types of vans are inherently different, both have complex electrical systems. The complexity of these systems increases the likelihood of electrical system complications like dimming lights, lift failure, or glitching controls.
It's worth noting that electronic system issues are common, but you can avoid them by conducting regular inspections by yourself or with the help of an electronic technician. Also, avoid overloading the electrical system and tread softly with aftermarket electronic parts with excessive power consumption.
You should also never leave electrical repairs to your local mechanic, regardless of their experience. Instead, find a National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA)-certified dealer or service station to handle these repairs.
Jammed Doors, Ramps and Wheelchair Lifts
Jamming ramps and wheelchair lifts are among the most common issues with accessible vans. The moving parts on these ramps and lifts can easily wear and tear with continued use. Dirt and debris can also clog these parts, causing malfunctions.
Fortunately, there are quick and easy ways to avoid these issues. First, ensure you lubricate your ramp's/lift's moving parts to reduce wear and tear. Also, vacuum and clean your van at least twice a week, and arrange a monthly deep clean to keep dust and debris from compromising your ramp or lift's operability. You should particularly pay close attention to the door tracks and ramps, which are not only debris magnets but are also easily jammed.
Battery Drain
Accessible vans have plenty of electrical components compared to normal vans. The extra electrical load may strain your van's battery, causing your battery to drain faster.
To prevent this, you should avoid overloading your vehicle with too much electronics, which can put your car in limp mode (if applicable). The ramps and motorized doors already consume significant power, so extra electronic accessories will only do more harm than good.
Suspension Issues
Accessible vans carry a lot of additional weight from the handicap and seating installations. The extra weight can affect your vehicle's suspension and accelerate tire wear. If your van creaks when driving over bumps or when loading it with luggage, it likely has problems with its suspension.
Suspension complications are almost unavoidable unless you replace your van's current suspensions with heavy-duty ones, including mechanical steel and elastomeric (rubber) spring suspensions. You should also avoid over or under-inflating your tires. Proper tire pressures allow the tires to distribute weight evenly, minimizing the burden on your vehicle's suspension system.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Handicap Van in Tip-Top Shape
The overall condition and longevity of your accessible van depend on how well you take care of it. Here are a couple of maintenance tips to help you get the most out of your investment:
- Regularly Inspect the wheelchair tie-downs: Worn-out straps are a disaster waiting to happen. You should routinely inspect wheelchair tie-downs and safety belts for signs of wear. Replace them as soon as you can if you notice some damage.
- Arrange an annual service center inspection: While you can always inspect the vehicle yourself, it's better to have experts at a registered service center inspect it for you. As such, arrange an annual inspection to have professionals check your vehicle's condition.
- Keep your paperwork in order: Proper organization of your van's paperwork makes it easier for mechanics and technicians to identify potential issues with your van before they surface. In doing so, they can help prevent costly issues down the road. Therefore, you should always make sure your van's insurance documents, service information, and registration details are in order and available on demand.
Keep Your Handicap Van in Good Shape
You can avoid common wheelchair issues with a bit of effort. It’s a small sacrifice compared to the amount of money you'll pay for repair costs should these issues arise. Be extra conscientious about the condition of your van, and you'll thank yourself for the many years of service you get from using it. Lastly, don't forget to leave van repairs to the experts.